If you drive, work, or own a business in New Port Richey, understanding the 2026 window tint laws matters. At Sol Control, we get questions every day: how dark can I tint my front windows? What about my SUV’s rear windows? Do I need a special sticker? This guide breaks the rules down clearly, explains what they mean for you locally, and shows how we help make sure your tint is legal, safe, and built to last.
The short version
Florida law sets statewide rules for vehicle window sun screening (window tint). The big points drivers in New Port Richey should remember are:
- Front side windows must allow at least 28% visible light transmission (VLT) in other words, they can’t be darker than a film that lets 28% of light through.
- Rear side windows and the rear window have different minimum VLT limits depending on vehicle type: for many sedans the rear windows must allow at least 15% VLT, while multipurpose vehicles (SUVs, vans, some trucks) may legally have as low as 6% VLT on rear windows.
- Windshield tinting is limited to a non-reflective strip above the AS-1 line (the small legal band at the top of your windshield). Anything that affects the driver’s forward view is not allowed.
- Measurements have a tolerance of ±3%, so installers and enforcement use approved meters and accepted tolerances when checking VLT.
Those are the headline rules read on for details, reflectivity and color limits, medical exemptions, penalties, and practical steps you should take.
Reflectivity, color limits and other technical rules
Florida law doesn’t just limit how dark tint can be; it also limits how reflective (mirror-like) film may be and restricts some colors:
- Reflectivity limits are commonly cited as no more than ~25% reflectance on front side windows and 35% on rear windows, and the law restricts highly mirrored or metallic films. These reflectance limits help prevent glare that could blind other drivers or interfere with law enforcement.
- Certain tint colors (notably red, amber, and bright blue) are generally discouraged or treated as noncompliant in practical enforcement because they conflict with vehicle lights and emergency signals. Stick to neutral shades like charcoal, gray, or smoke when you want a safe, compliant look.
Medical exemptions
Florida does provide a sun screening medical exemption for people with conditions that require limited sun exposure (for example, lupus, certain autoimmune diseases, albinism, and similar diagnoses). The exemption is a formal certificate issued through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and must be carried in the vehicle. The application (Form HSMV-83390) requires physician certification and specific vehicle details. If you qualify, the exemption permits sun screening that would otherwise violate the standard rules.
If you think you qualify, we recommend applying for the exemption before installing nonstandard tint. We can help you confirm the paperwork and install film that matches the exemption conditions.
Stickers, labels and installer responsibilities
Florida law requires installers to provide documentation about installed sun screening material. Trusted installers will:
- Provide a label showing the film type and compliance information (this label is normally placed inside the driver’s door jamb).
- Use approved measuring devices if asked and explain the VLT percentage on your invoice.
- Keep up-to-date on local and state rules so your tint meets both the VLT and reflectivity rules.
Keep the label and your invoice in the vehicle so they can avoid headaches during traffic stops. Soliciting proof of compliance before you leave the shop is a good habit.
What happens if your tint is illegal
Operating a vehicle with illegal sun screening is typically a noncriminal traffic infraction (a nonmoving violation). If found noncompliant, you may be required to remove the film and may face fines. Importantly, installers who knowingly sell or install illegal film can face criminal penalties, including misdemeanor charges in some cases. That’s why professional, reputable shops (like us) insist on compliance and give documented proof.
Practical tips for New Port Richey drivers
- Ask for the VLT reading and the installer’s compliance label. If your shop won’t provide it, walk away. We always put a compliance sticker in the door jamb and document the VLT in writing.
- Choose shade smartly. For front side windows pick 28% VLT or lighter (higher percentage means lighter). For rear windows, check your vehicle’s class (sedan vs. multipurpose) before picking 6% vs. 15%.
- Consider ceramic or IR films. These modern films block heat and UV without being extremely dark. They’re a great way to get comfort and protection while staying legal. (We install high-performance, non-reflective films that meet Florida standards.)
- Keep exemption paperwork in the glove box if you have a medical certificate. The certificate is vehicle-specific and nontransferable, and it will avoid enforcement problems if your tint exceeds typical limits.
- If you get a ticket, document everything. Keep receipts, the installer label, and any FLHSMV paperwork showing compliance or exemptions.
Why pick Sol Control in New Port Richey?
We’re local, experienced, and committed to doing the job right. At Sol Control we offer:
- Automotive, residential, and commercial tinting with premium films;
- Proper documentation, door-jamb compliance labels, and VLT readings;
- Knowledge of the Florida statutes and practical, up-to-date compliance guidance for drivers in New Port Richey.
We protect your comfort, protect your interior from damaging UV rays, and make sure you don’t get stuck fixing an illegal installation.
Final checklist
- Installer gave you a door-jamb compliance label?
- Written VLT percentage recorded on your receipt?
- Windshield film limited to the AS-1 line?
- Medical exemption on file (if applicable) and in the vehicle?
If you answered “no” to any of these, stop by Sol Control we’ll check your film, correct noncompliant installs, and document everything so you can drive confidently.
Have questions or want a free quote? Call us or stop by our New Port Richey shop. We’ll inspect your vehicle, explain your options, and show you compliant film choices that look great and perform well.
